Pfizer Advertises Chantix without Disclosing Suicide Side Effects
Exploiting a loophole in FDA drug advertising rules, Pfizer has been running millions of dollars in television ads designed to increase sales of their anti-smoking drug Chantix without warning about side effects which could increase the risk of suicide and other life-threatening injuries.
>>INFORMATION: Chantix Suicide Side Effects
According to FDA regulations, pharmaceutical companies are required to disclose possible side effects concerning their medications in advertisements and promotional material. This is required so that doctors and consumers can make an informed decision about whether they are willing to accept the potential risks to obtain the benefits of the medication. However, the FDA does not require information about dangers of a product if the advertisement does not specifically name the drug.
In recent weeks, Pfizer has devised a direct-to-consumer advertising campaign for their stop smoking drug Chantix, which is designed to increase sales of the drug by directing consumers to a specific website called MyTimeToQuit.com.
Neither the commercial or the website mentions the name “Chantix” specifically, but clearly both are designed to encourage consumers to talk to their doctors about drug treatments available to stop smoking. The website indicates that they should “learn more” about prescription treatment options, providing a direct link to the Chantix website. However, neither the commercial or the website talk about the potential side effects associated with the prescription treatment, which could increase the risk of suicide, suicidal thoughts or unusual aggressive behavior.
As a result of the serious side effects of Chantix, the FDA has required Pfizer to add stronger warnings to the label about the possible risk of suicide, suicidal thoughts and behavior changes that could result in severe injuries. These warnings were designed to make sure that Chantix users understand that pyschiatric problems can be caused by Chantix.
Despite the intent of these warnings, Pfizer is clearly formulating their advertising campaign around a message that fails to provide information about the negatives associated with the use of Chantix to help people stop smoking. Their executives must believe that they will generate more sales with these ads, than if they ran branded Chantix advertisements which properly informed people of the risks that come with their prescription treatment.
CHANTIX SIDE EFFECT LAWSUITS
There are substantial health benefits associated with quitting smoking. However, there are many safer alternatives to Chantix available to help people stop smoking, and if they are properly informed about the risk of psychological side effects, many smokers would likely choose not to use Chantix.
The Chantix lawyers at Saiontz, Kirk & Miles, P.A. are reviewing potential lawsuits throughout the United States for users who have suffered severe or fatal injuries from a suicide, suicide attempt or unusual behavior. Potential cases are also being investigate for other side effects associated with Chantix, including new on-set diabetes, accidents caused by seizures or sudden blackouts, and a rare skin disorder known as Stevens Johnson Syndrome.
If you, a friend or family member have experienced problems with Chantix, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
